A resident of Shepherd Park Terrace is raising alarms about traffic safety, particularly for students who run in the area. The individual has observed a troubling trend of drivers ignoring stop signs, which poses a significant risk to pedestrians and runners alike.
Mason Courtney, who frequently walks his dogs in the neighborhood, has noted that many motorists either roll through or completely disregard stop signs. His concerns have intensified due to the presence of St. Pius X High School students, who utilize these streets for their morning cross-country practices.
Having witnessed several near misses between vehicles and runners, Courtney fears that it is only a matter of time before a serious incident occurs. He is advocating for increased attention to this issue to prevent potential accidents.
In response to these concerns, a reporter visited Shepherd Park Terrace to assess the situation firsthand. The reporter, who is an alumna of St. Pius X and familiar with the running routes, observed traffic patterns and the same streets used by both runners and pedestrians.
St. Pius X High School acknowledged the importance of neighborly vigilance regarding student safety. The school expressed gratitude for community concerns and emphasized that the safety of its students is paramount. They noted that the cross-country team is supervised during practices, with coaches actively managing the runners’ interactions with traffic.
The school confirmed that practice sessions are currently held at 7 a.m., transitioning to a 6 a.m. schedule the following week. They stated that no reports of reckless driving have been received from athletes or coaching staff during their morning practices.
To enhance safety around the campus, St. Pius X has implemented speed bumps near school entrances during drop-off and pick-up times, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining a safe environment for students.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office and the Houston Police Department, have been contacted regarding the jurisdiction over Shepherd Park Terrace. While the area falls under the Houston Police Department’s domain, constable deputies can provide assistance if necessary. Officers reminded residents that adherence to traffic laws, including stopping at stop signs, is mandatory.
Residents who notice persistent traffic issues are encouraged to report them through Houston 311. Furthermore, those who frequently observe the same vehicles or drivers violating traffic regulations can provide information directly to their local police station.
Ultimately, Courtney’s primary objective is to ensure that drivers in Shepherd Park Terrace remain vigilant and adhere to traffic laws, thereby safeguarding the well-being of pedestrians and runners before a close call escalates into a more serious incident.
